3) Get a terrific deal on a different kind of cruise.

Canal cruises through regions like Burgundy on small eight-passenger boats often fill up far in advance. But Jill Jergel of Frontiers International Travel says great deals can still be found right now for last-minute July and August itineraries: “It’s like a floating villa with full staff.”

4) If you’re Peru-bound, plan ahead to hike the Inca Trail.

Machu Picchu is wildly popular in June and July, when the rain subsides, but permits to hike the trail sell out fast—half of June is already booked (only 200 permits are available per day). “Lock in late summer or early fall now,” says Antonia Neubauer of Myths and Mountains.

5) Book next spring’s trip to Japan.

Cherry blossom season (roughly late March through late April) is the country’s busiest; plan now, especially if you want a room at the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, right above the scenic Kamogawa River. “Hotels and ryokans sell out far in advance,” says Nancy Craft of Esprit Travel & Tours.